A university dance lecturer has become the first in London to gain a coveted teaching title.

Sara Houston has joined a select group numbering under 700 professionals in the National Teaching Fellowship - the first dance lecturer in London to receive the honour.

The dance studies lecturer at the University of Roehampton was honoured for her long-term efforts in promoting the activity on June 12.

She will receive £10,000 to spend on professional development, helping colleagues and students at the university.

Dr Houston, who is also chairwoman of the Foundation for Community Dance, said: "These fellowships raise awareness of the importance of great teaching and that’s so vital, especially when students are deciding which universities to apply to, and while there’s so much focus on the profession in Government and the national media."